Hair Removal

Laser Hair Removal Burns: Causes & Prevention

Laser hair removal burns are rare but can occur when treatments are not customized correctly.

Why Do Burns Happen With Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal delivers pulses of light energy that seek out melanin (pigment) in hair follicles, disabling their growth. However, if the treatment isn’t properly matched to your skin type or if the protocol is skipped, the skin, not just the hair, can absorb too much heat, and that’s how burns may occur.

What increases the risk of burns during a laser hair removal session?

  • Incorrect Laser Settings for Your Skin Type: The biggest culprit is using the wrong laser wavelength or energy level. Different skin types and tones require precise calibration. For example, the Cynosure Apogee Elite system, which LaserAway uses, offers two wavelengths: Alexandrite (755nm) for lighter skin tones and Nd:YAG (1064nm) for darker skin types. Using the wrong setting increases the risk of burning.
  • Recent Sun Exposure or Tanning:  If you’ve tanned or been sunburned, your skin’s melanin increases, making it harder for the laser to distinguish between hair and skin, which raises the risk of burns.
  • Inexperienced Operators: Skill and training matter. Providers who lack experience in calibrating lasers for different skin types or who skip mandatory safety checks are far more likely to cause adverse reactions.

Improper Pre-Treatment Prep: Not following pre-session instructions, like showing up with residual makeup, lotions, or recent waxing, can also interfere with safe energy delivery.

What should I do if burns occur after laser hair removal?

While burns after laser hair removal are uncommon, it’s important to reach out to your treatment provider right away if you notice any unusual symptoms like redness, blistering, or persistent discomfort. Your provider can evaluate your skin, determine the cause, and recommend the best course of care to promote healing and prevent complications.

At LaserAway, patient safety is always the top priority. “Though adverse reactions are rare, we encourage anyone who experiences unexpected irritation to contact us right away,” says Dr. Kirby. “We’re open seven days a week, and our team is always available to provide guidance, in-person assessments, and follow-up care.”

Is It Normal To Get Burns After Laser Hair Removal?

Mild redness or swelling is completely normal and short-lived. True burns, however, are not “normal”, and are preventable when the correct technology and protocols are followed.

According to Dr. Will Kirby, Board-Certified Dermatologist and LaserAway’s Chief Medical Officer,

“Very mild discomfort is, by far, the most common side effect. Overall, laser hair removal treatment is extremely safe, with only mild and temporary risks and side effects.”

How do I know if my reaction is normal or needs medical attention?

Mild redness or slight swelling (similar to a sunburn sensation) is very common immediately after treatment; these symptoms usually fade within a few days. However, if you notice more pronounced redness in a defined circular area, blistering, significant pain, or any changes in skin color, these may be signs of a burn. Contact your provider right away for a professional evaluation.

How LaserAway Prevents Laser Hair Removal Burns

LaserAway sets the industry standard for safe, effective laser treatments. Here’s how our LaseSafe protocols protect your skin:

1. Skin-Type Calibration: Every session begins with a Fitzpatrick skin-type assessment to determine the correct wavelength and energy setting. The Cynosure Apogee Elite laser features built-in software safeguards that prevent mismatched wavelengths for your skin type.

“My advice for anyone seeking laser hair removal is to always confirm the provider is using the Nd:YAG wavelength for darker skin types,” explains Dr. Kirby.

2. Test Pulses (“Patch Test”): Before treating a full area, LaserAway clinicians always perform a single test pulse and observe your skin’s reaction before continuing—an added safety step often skipped elsewhere.

3. Advanced Cooling Technology: Each treatment includes integrated cooling between laser pulses to protect the skin’s surface, maintain comfort, and prevent overheating.

4. Doctor-Led Supervision: LaserAway is proudly led by a diverse group of physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and registered nurses.

Prevention Tips for Safe Laser Hair Removal

Following these steps helps your provider calibrate your treatment accurately and keeps your skin protected.

  • Avoid tanning or spray tans for at least two weeks before your session.
  • Shave the area 24 hours before treatment.
  • Skip lotions, deodorant, or topical acids on treatment day.
  • Always disclose medications and recent sun exposure.

Laser Hair Removal Burn FAQs

How long do laser hair removal burns last?

Minor reactions fade within hours to days. More significant burns or pigment changes are rare and typically resolve over time with proper medical guidance.

Do burns from laser hair removal cause lasting damage?
When treated promptly, burns rarely result in scarring or lasting pigment changes. Quick intervention prevents complications.

Are certain skin types more at risk for burns?
Laser hair removal burns are more likely when darker skin types (IV-VI) are treated with the wrong wavelength or energy. LaserAway’s protocols use only the safest settings (often Nd:YAG 1064nm) for deeper skin tones and rely on multiple safety checks.

Can I prevent burns by choosing the right provider?
Absolutely. The best way to avoid burns is by choosing a provider that prioritizes safety, uses advanced equipment, and provides real medical oversight, exactly what sets LaserAway apart.

The LaserAway Difference

Burns from laser hair removal are rare and preventable when you’re in experienced hands. At LaserAway, every treatment is guided by advanced technology, precise calibration, and continuous medical supervision to keep your skin safe.

As Dr. Will Kirby emphasizes,

“Laser hair removal is a proven, effective treatment with an outstanding safety profile. The key is proper training, proper technology, and proper patient care, and that’s exactly what we deliver every day at LaserAway.”

Smooth, hair-free skin should never come at the cost of comfort or safety, and at LaserAway, it never does.

Get a free laser hair removal consultation.

 

References:

  1. “Comparing Traditional and in Motion Nd:YAG Laser in Hair Removal: A Prospective Study,” Medicina, September 2, 2022.
  2. “Nd:YAG Technology for Laser Hair Removal: What’s New?,” Dermatological Reviews, July 26, 2024.

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